The Iranian leader is opposed to a parliamentary law that aims to block UN inspections and revive uranium enrichment. A "harmful" norm for dialogue, a political maneuver in view of the presidential elections in June. The future tenant of the White House ready to revive the JCPOA, the "best way" to ensure "stability" in the region.
"The hope of the world lies completely in the blessing of God" who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in Christ. The 4 sisters killed in El Salvador 40 years ago "lived their faith with great generosity: they are an example for all to become faithful missionary disciples".
In addition to masks, social distancing and hand washing, there is the risk of an "afternoon" Christmas Mass, or indeed none altogether: The European Union is suggesting the elimination of all liturgical celebrations, replacing them with online events! We argue about the time of Mass, while we are getting used to the fact that the state is a "healthcare" state that manages (instead of serving) our wellbeing. Christmas is the Life that enters darkness and the shadow of death: The Child Jesus of the oriental icons is wrapped as in a shroud, similar to that of Christ in the tomb.
Francis sends a message to the Ecumenical Patriarch on the feast day of Saint Andrew, teh Patriarchate’s patron saint. The "primary duty" of Christians is to offer an example of dialogue, mutual respect, and cooperation to a world where war will end when people realise that they are brothers and sisters.
There are still nearly one million displaced people in Lebanon. The war in Syria has changed the demographic balance and reshuffled the internal balance. Damascus is in no hurry to see them return, but for Beirut they have become a heavy burden at a cost of a billion. The game of reconstruction between Russia and the West
From this morning, restriction to contain coronavirus contagion will be eased. Restaurants will reopen to 50% of their capacity, curfew passes from 5pm to 11pm. Bars and night clubs remain closed. Minister for Health: the "danger" of contagions is still high and current.
During the Angelus, Pope Francis noted that "The Lord never abandons us" and this can help overcome "fear and discouragement" along with "pessimism, closure, and apathy" at this time of pandemic. The pontiff urged the faithful to pray for the new cardinals.
Commentary (in Italian) on the Gospel of the Sunday before Advent B (Mark 13:33-37).
At the Altar of the Chair in St Peter's Basilica, Pope Francis celebrated Mass with the new cardinals created in yesterday’s consistory. “[W]hy should we be caught up with earthly concerns?” “Why should we look for ‘patrons’ to help advance our career?” “Some people seem to think that being compassionate, helping and serving others is for losers. Yet these are the only things that win us the victory”. “When the Church worships God and serves our neighbour, she does not live in the night. However weak and weary, she journeys towards the Lord.”
During the consistory held at the Altar of the chair, Pope Francis placed the biretta on 13 new cardinals. Those from the Philippines and Brunei were absent due to problems related to the pandemic. All the cardinals wore masks and stood at a distance from each other. One of the new cardinals, Mario Grech, Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops, delivered the opening greetings.
One of Iran’s foremost scientist was killed this morning following a targeted attack. He was injured when his car was hit, and died later in hospital from his injuries. Foreign diplomats describe him as the "father of the Iranian bomb". Israel has not yet issued any comment.
Turkey’s sustained growth rate of the past decade has considerably slowed down. Recession appears to be around the corner. The main Turkish trade union confederation notes that the poverty line is three and half times higher than the minimum wage. The country’s foreign adventurism masks its domestic crises.
The Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life is launching a campaign to invite young people to spread the "virtual hugs" exchanged with the elderly online with the initiative "The elderly are your grandparents".
The 49-year-old father of six was transferred from the Tel Aviv hospital to the university clinic in Al-Najah in the West Bank. For 103 days, he refused food in protest against his detention. According to B’Tselem, as of August there are about 355 Palestinians held in administrative detention, including two minors.
About 500 military and civilians are on trial in connection with the 2016 coup. Proceedings focused on events inside the Akinci Air Base, near the capital. Dozens of defendants will serve harsh prison terms for trying to overthrow the government and kill Erdoğan.
